PCT

What is PCT and why is it necessary after a SARM and prohormone cycle?

Post Cycle Therapy is a precisely planned supplementation protocol, the aim of which is to restore the body's natural hormone production as quickly as possible after a cycle using prohormones (PH) or other agents that strongly interfere with the hormonal balance.

During the cycle, by providing the body with powerful anabolic compounds from the outside, you send it a simple signal: "You no longer have to produce your own testosterone." In response, your body "turns off" its natural production. In more technical terms, the hypothalamus-pituitary-testicular axis (HPTA axis) is blocked or suppressed. The hypothalamus stops producing GnRH, the pituitary gland stops secreting LH and FSH, and the testicles, not receiving a signal, stop producing testosterone.

When you stop taking the drugs from your cycle, a dangerous "hormonal hole" is created. The level of exogenous (external) anabolics drops to zero, and your body does not yet "know" that it should resume its own production. It is at this point, without proper support, that the drama begins:

• The testosterone level is close to zero.
• Cortisol levels (the stress and catabolic hormone) skyrocket.
• Estrogen levels (the female hormone) often remain elevated.

This hormonal mix leads directly to rapid muscle catabolism, fat gain, water retention, a drop in libido to zero, and even depression. Your hard-earned muscles literally disappear before your eyes. PCT is your only weapon to prevent this.

Main Goals of Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)

Restarting the HPTA axis and restoring testosterone production

This is the absolute foundation of PCT. The goal is to "wake up" your pituitary and testicles as quickly as possible. You need ingredients that will send a powerful signal to your brain to resume production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). It is LH that is the direct signal to the Leydig cells in the testicles to start synthesizing your own natural testosterone again. Ingredients such as D-aspartic acid (DAA) or innovative GnRH mimetic peptides work in this way, forcing the body to quickly get back on track.

Estrogen control - blocking female hormones

During the cycle, when androgen levels are very high, some of them are converted to estrogen in a process called aromatization. After the cycle, when testosterone drops and estrogen remains high, the androgen-estrogen balance is disturbed. The effects? Gynecomastia (enlargement of the mammary gland), massive water retention that masks muscle definition, and easier fat deposition. That is why every effective PCT preparation must contain an aromatase inhibitor (AI). Compounds like Arimistane (Androsta-3,5-diene-7,17-dione) act as a "shield" by blocking the aromatase enzyme and preventing the conversion of valuable androgens to unwanted estrogen.

Cortisol busting – protecting muscles from breakdown

Cortisol is your muscles' public enemy number one. This stress hormone works in an inverse correlation to testosterone. When testosterone is low (like during a "hormonal hole"), cortisol levels spike. High cortisol signals to the body: "We're in crisis, we need energy, start breaking down muscle tissue!" This is why without PCT, muscles disappear so quickly. Adaptogenic ingredients such as Ashwagandha (especially in the standardized form KSM-66) or phosphatidylserine are powerful tools for controlling cortisol levels, creating an anabolic protective shield for your gains.

Liver protection and regeneration - the foundation of health

Many agents used in cycles, especially in oral form, are metabolized by the liver, which is a huge burden for it. Ignoring liver health is extremely irresponsible. PCT is the perfect time to provide it with comprehensive regeneration. Essential ingredients are NAC (N-Acetylcysteine), which is a precursor of glutathione – the most powerful antioxidant in the human body, and TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid).">, considered the gold standard in the protection and regeneration of hepatocytes (liver cells).

The most powerful ingredients in PCT supplements

Modern, comprehensive PCT formulas are a synergy of many active ingredients. When looking for the best product, pay attention to the presence of the following compounds:

Aromatase Inhibitors (AI) and Estrogen Modulators

• Arimistane (Androsta-3,5-diene-7,17-dione): A powerful and irreversible (so-called suicidal) aromatase inhibitor. Effectively lowers estrogen and cortisol levels, while raising natural testosterone levels. An essential element of any PCT.
• ATD (1,4,6-Androstatriene-3,17-dione): Another effective aromatase inhibitor that prevents the conversion of androgens to estrogens.

HPTA Axis Stimulators and Testosterone Boosters

• D-Aspartic Acid (DAA): An amino acid that, according to research, can significantly increase luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, directly stimulating the testicles to produce testosterone.
• Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma Longifolia): An exotic plant known for its ability to raise free testosterone by lowering sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG).
• Fadogia Agrestis: An African herb that is gaining immense popularity due to research indicating its powerful potential to stimulate LH production and natural testosterone.
• Fenugreek: Extract rich in steroid saponins, which support testosterone production and improve libido.

Liver Protection and Regeneration

• NAC (N-Acetylcysteine): An absolute "must have". Raises glutathione levels, protecting liver cells from oxidative stress and toxins.
• TUDCA (Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid): A compound that reverses metabolite toxicity in the liver and promotes its health at the level of cellular. Considered the most effective legal protective agent.
• Milk Thistle: Specifically, its active ingredient – ​​Silymarin. Known for centuries for its hepatoprotective properties.

Cortisol Reducers and Adaptogens

• Ashwagandha (especially KSM-66® or Sensoril®): Clinically tested extracts that significantly lower cortisol levels, reduce stress and improve well-being.
• Phosphatidylserine: A phospholipid that helps blunt the cortisol response to physical (training) and mental stress.

When to start PCT? Timing is the key to success

Starting PCT at the right time is just as important as the composition of the product itself. It depends directly on the half-life of the agents you used on the cycle.

• For short, oral prohormones: PCT usually starts the next day (24 hours) after taking last tablet.
• For long, injectable esters: It is necessary to wait until the concentration of the agent in the blood drops. This time may be 7-14 days.

Most common mistakes during PCT

• starting therapy too late
  
• too short duration PCT
• no estrogen control
• omission of support for the liver and circulatory system
• use only natural boosters with strong suppression

See also our supplements for libido!